Using SAM - Overview

About SAM

The Enoch Pratt Free Library offers free access to computers and the Internet at all library locations. Because computers are so popular, the Library has installed software known as "SAM" (Smart Access Manager™) that allows all computer users equal access time at each location.

Using your library card number and PIN (Personal Identification Number), SAM keeps track of the amount of time each user is on the computer*, and limits users to four (4) total hours of use per day.

SAM Manages Printing

Customers also use SAM to pay for computer printouts. SAM Print Manager shows current balance and details.

• All users are allowed five (5) free printed pages per day
• After the free printouts, a charge of ten (10) cents per page (plus tax) is applied
• Customers use the Automated Payment Machine (“APM”) to add money onto their accounts

Access SAM with Library Cards

Computer users must have a library card with full borrowing privileges or a “Computer Use Only” library card. Go to the Circulation Desk if you do not have a library card or if you do not know your PIN.

Out of town visitors should see the librarian for a 24-hour “Visitor’s Pass” for access to Pratt computers.

SAM Guidelines

All computers users must agree to abide by the Library's Internet Use Policy and Computer Courtesies.

*Each library location has a different number of computers. As a result, the length of computer sessions varies by location. Please check with the librarian for the session times at each location.

How to Use SAM - Step by step

Frequently Asked Questions and answers about SAM